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As the first model from Mazda’s next-generation range, the all-new Mazda3 is a special car. More than simply a means of transportation, Mazda wants it to enrich owners’ lives, to serve as an inspiration and empowerment to a more fulfilling lifestyle. Program Manager Kota Beppu said: “With the Mazda3, we want to enable owners to be their ideal self.” A not insubstantial task.

In order for people to express their true selves, Beppu recognized that two cars, each with a unique personality, was the answer. “This was a challenge,” said Mazda3 Chief Designer Yasutake Tsuchida. “The four-door sedan customer is looking for a more sleek, elegant image, while the hatchback customer is looking for a sportier design and more emotion. So we paid attention to what customers desire and maximized the appeal of each, to give birth to a truly compelling design. Both have to embrace Mazda’s Japanese design aesthetic to a greater level than ever before.”

Creating two cars is not the easy option, but to meet Mazda’s ambitious goal, this no-compromise route is the only way. Ally this approach to Mazda’s new SKYACTIV-Vehicle Architecture, which makes driving the all-new Mazda3 feel as natural as walking, and you have a game-changing car.

DESIGN ETHOS

The all-new Mazda3 delivers a deeper connection between car and driver in comparison to the outgoing model, itself one of the best-driving cars in its class. According to Tsuchida, the five-door hatchback is more “free spirited” in style with a powerful, seductive look. The sedan speaks of elegance and refinement. Both celebrate the latest KODO—Soul of Motion design language. Tsuchida explained: “We are trying to pursue beauty through subtraction and beauty through purity. You can see the very simple form, but when light strikes the car, it’s clear that the shapes are rich and intriguing.”

Using reflections creates a lasting bond between customer and car, according to Tsuchida. “The form is simple but the reflection is complex and intriguing,” he said. “When you see the car in the morning, you see one expression. Then in the evening it is totally different.”

Tsuchida is trying to create a long-term bond with the customer through distinctive design that is also subtle and simple, born out of Japan’s centuries-old appreciation of nature. And Tsuchida has history with the Mazda3, as his first job at Mazda was working on the exterior of the original model. He recalled: “If you go back to the 1980s or ’90s, we were trying to find our DNA with cars like the 323F. If you look at our hatchbacks, they all have a unique rear. That’s what I would say is our identity. It’s also my favorite part of the All-new Mazda3.”

DRIVING EXPERIENCE

Mazda’s driving philosophy isn’t built purely on speed and sportiness, but on something that’s harder to measure. It’s about always feeling “at one” with the car, and a more natural and relaxing driving experience, according to Beppu.

To achieve this Mazda has developed the new SKYACTIV-Vehicle Architecture, based on what Beppu calls a “human-centric” approach to design. The engine, suspension, seats, tires, and other components must work in harmony. Enormous effort went into seating design and comfort, steering wheel position (now with extra adjustment), and pedal placement.

Every detail matters so that the driver can concentrate on the drive. The windshield wipers, for example, are housed beneath the hood: this improves visibility and makes for a cleaner design. Visibility is further improved by “pulling back” the A-pillar. And the instrumentation and dashboard have been simplified, to deliver only the necessary information to the driver and allow them to focus on driving enjoyment.

Beppu describes the cabin as “the ultimate private space.” The quality of the materials and components is premium, including TFT LCD instruments and a newly designed grained dashboard. Much attention has also been paid to reducing noise, vibration and harshness, and to a completely re-imagined audio system.

ENGINE TECHNOLOGY

The innovative SKYACTIV-X engine is set to make its debut in the all-new Mazda3. This new unit, which in the U.S. will be available later in the model’s roll-out rather than at launch, combines the best qualities of diesel and gasoline engines.

It’s torquey, responsive, and efficient, like a good diesel. And zestful, linear and high-revving, like a gas engine. So it’s designed to enhance driving pleasure and reduce fuel bills. Mazda’s new SPCCI technology—for Spark Controlled Compression Ignition—uses a spark to burn the fuel-air mix (like a gasoline engine) and high compression, like a diesel.

In effect, the spark controls the compression ignition. This highly efficient and radical form of combustion is engineered to improve both performance and fuel economy. This new gasoline unit also uses “mild hybrid” technology. Energy recovered from deceleration helps power the electrics. An electric motor improves acceleration from a standing start.

Beppu explained that the latest Mazda3 is a model that delivers unprecedented value to customers.

“The car is equipped with a dramatically improved performance package: dynamics, noise reduction, environmental performance and quality. I hope it will bring great joy to customers’ lives,” Beppa said.

At launch, a 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G gasoline engine will be available. It delivers strong performance and fuel economy, and reduced emissions, while cylinder deactivation means that two of the four cylinders are shut off when power isn’t needed, boosting economy and reducing fuel costs. “Every drive will enable a driving experience like never before,” Beppu said. “I sincerely hope that this exceptional model will inspire and bring joy to customers every day.”